Solent oyster enhancement reef concrete colonisation trials

Abstract The Interreg funded project RECIF (2012-2015) developed waste shell concrete formulations specifically for artificial reefs. Its successor MARINEFF continues these evaluating further to maximise both physical performance and endurance with biological attractiveness. Four were produced by ESITC Caen trials based on combinations of two cement types (CEM II CEM IV) either coarse aggregate or crushed oyster shells replacing 20% the aggregate. most extensive colonisation carried out 5x5x2cm blocks UK French partners. These test also had smooth rough faces. This paper describes results Southampton trials. blocks, one each formulation along an cut same area secured in a framework pairs suspended vertically at 6 fully saline sites around Solent region (Calshot, Beaulieu River, Hamble Itchen Portsmouth Langstone Harbours) from May August 2019. On recovery analysed Total Biomass, Algae (PAM & %cover), Anemones (n), Ascidians (%cover), Barnacles (n % cover), Bryozoans Hydroids Mytilus edulis Pomatoceros sp. Sponges (%), Spirorbis sp (n). There considerable differences between which are described detail, but overall terms biomass using V performed as well shell. Given that it is accepted oysters attracted natural substrate, this was promising choice mix final reef modules deployed Calshot, September 2020.